Bell ringing marks new era at Wales school

Every year pupils ring the school bell to bring the first full assembly of the school year to a close and mark the beginning of the new academic year.

This year, year seven pupils Michael Dykes and Eleanor Holmes were invited to perform the exciting task.

It was made even more special because the ringing also welcomed the school’s new headteacher Giuseppe Di’Iasio.

The bell, which dates back to 1872, was used in the original village school and was presented to Wales High School by the National Coal Board in 1978.

On the closure of the colliery in 1994 the bell was given to Wales High School for safe-keeping, together with the NUM banner which has since been on display in the school.

Mr Di’Iasio said he was looking forward to working with everyone at the school after taking over leadership from John Day.

He said: “Having lived and taught locally for several years, I am aware of the long established excellent reputation Wales has acquired for having the highest standards and being recognised as an outstanding school.”

“I am immensely proud to have been given the opportunity to work with the students, staff, parents and governors of Wales.”